Rapper A$AP Rocky Pleads Not Guilty in Felony Assault Case
A$AP Rocky has declined a final plea offer of 180 days in jail, choosing instead to face trial as jury selection began on Tuesday. The Grammy-nominated rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, could face years in prison if found guilty.
The charges stem from a 2021 incident in Hollywood where Mayers is accused of firing a handgun twice during a confrontation with a former friend and collaborator, Terrell Ephron, also known as A$AP Relli.
Mayers was charged on August 15, 2022, with two counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm. Prosecutors allege he fired shots at Ephron, who later claimed to have been struck by bullet fragments. Mayers pleaded not guilty and was released on bond under an order to avoid contact with the alleged victim.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón stated that the charges include a special firearm allegation, noting the potential danger to both the target and bystanders. “Discharging a gun in a public place is a serious offense that could have ended tragically,” Gascón said.
Ephron filed a civil lawsuit in August 2022, accusing Mayers of assault, battery, emotional distress, and negligence. He also alleged physical and mental injuries from the incident. In response, Mayers denied all wrongdoing.
In September 2023, Ephron filed a defamation lawsuit against Mayers and his legal team, claiming they made false statements about him. Mayers and his attorneys denied the allegations in their response. Both civil cases remain pending.
While Mayers waived his right to appear in person during initial proceedings, his attorney Joe Tacopina confirmed that the rapper would be present in court for the trial. If convicted, Mayers could face up to 24 years in prison.
